Having traveled long-term for the past two years and having visited 39+ countries, I have learned a thing or two about travel packing. I typically travel light, using only a regular-sized backpack, the dimensions of a personal item with most airline carriers.
Which means each item I pack has to be essential. Bulky or heavy items can trigger additional chargers at baggage check, extra electronics can have you flagged at customs, and liquids over 100 mL require special consideration. To make it easier for your next adventure, I have compiled My Top 10 Essential Items for International Travel.
I have personally used every one of these items, and it is safe to say I love them!
Please note: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
1. La Roche-Posay Ultra Fluid Waterproof Face Sunscreen 50mL
La Roche-Posay facial sunscreen is my go-to for protecting my skin from the sun’s rays while traveling. Not only are their products high quality but they do not irritate my sensitive skin or cause break-outs. I have never had a sunburn after using this sunscreen, even on hot humid days, without reapplication. The 50ML container fits perfectly in my carry-on luggage and surprisingly lasts me for 6 months!
2. Teva Women’s W Midform Universal Wedge Sandal
Comfortable footwear is essential for long-term travel and I wear my Teva sandals everywhere! From hiking, swimming, and strolling around town, to in the shower, my Teva sandals go with me everywhere. The ankle straps make these sandals perfect for tropical hikes, allowing you to wade through rivers and wet terrain. I have tried both the Teva wedge and Teva classic (shown in the picture). The classic lays flat and can fit into my backpack easily. The wedges provide more support and are more comfortable to wear when traversing rocky terrain.
3. Goody Ouchless Women’s Braided Elastic Thick, Black, 27 Count, 4MM for Medium Hair
I have used and abused these hair elastics and yet they keep going. I was shocked when this pack lasted me two years of travel. The only reason I needed to buy more was because I lost so many, in part due to my cat stealing them! Although you can buy cheaper hair elastics from the dollar store, I have found that while traveling, I was less likely to lose them. So durability won out!
4. Sephora Beauty on the Fly Reusable Bag
As I am a carry-on only girly, I need to keep all my skincare, make-up, and liquids in a clear 1-liter bag. In the past, I have opted for zip-lock bags, but they rip easily. I have had two Sephora travel liquid bags for two years now and they still work great! I use and abuse these bags, stuffing way too much in them and yet the zipper hasn’t failed me. I only bought two originally because I thought the zipper would break, but it turns out they are more durable than I thought!
5. Philips Sonicare 3100 Power Toothbrush
Not only is this toothbrush super cute (my husband has the white one, while I have the pink one), but it keeps your teeth clean too! I have found it keeps my pearly whites cleaner and whiter than when I used a standard toothbrush. The charge also lasts me two months at a time and it charges easily via the USB plug. I will often charge it via the modems or TVs found in hotel rooms, as my laptop does not have a USB slot.
6. Columbia Women’s Newton Ridge Hiking Boot
I have hiked a literal volcano in these boots and was glad to be wearing them! The thick, grippy soles provide stability and comfort during long hikes, while the water-resistant material and breathable design keep my feet dry. These boots have also protected my feet while on crowded buses, walking in harsh conditions, and from pesky insects (mosquitos love to bite my feet!).
7. Shea Moisture Coconut and Hibiscus Curl Enhancing Smoothie Travel Size 100 ML
If you have wavy, curly, or frizzy hair then this product is for you. While traveling, you may notice that many countries do not carry products for curly or frizzy hair. Tropical weather calls for humidity and this meant, frizzy hair that no straightener or hair dryer could fix. At 100 ML this curl-enhancing smoothie tames frizz, while also fitting nicely into your 1-litre liquid carry-on case.
8. Tentree Tote
I have traveled the world with this Tentree Tote bag. This may look like just an ordinary tote bag, but I must tell you it isn’t. Most tote bags are hard and made of a rough fabric, but this tote is soft and scrunches easily. You can easily shove it into your bag, or throw it in the wash. This bag has been a beach bag, shopping bag, laundry bag, you name it! I have been searching for a replacement for the past two years and have yet to find one!
9. Wet Ones Vitamin E and Aloe Hand Wipes
Baby wipes or wet wipes are a lifesaver while traveling. From cleaning your hands to wiping bird poop out of your hair, to improvised toilet paper, they have saved me more than once. The antibacterial wet ones are great for cleaning your airplane seat, your cellphone, or other surfaces. While the Vitamin E and Aloe Hand wipes are more gentle and great for cleaning your hands or body.
10. BaBylissPRO Tourmaline & Titanium Micro Travel Hairdryer
You may find it ridiculous that I carry a hair dryer in my tiny backpack, but I have found it extremely useful. Most hotel hair dryers are low-power, resulting in frizzy hair and poor style control. This hair dryer is powerful, compact, and dual-voltage, making it perfect for travel. I have also used this hair dryer to dry my shoes and clothes, and even warm me up on occassion!